12. Building awareness, identity, and agency in children.

Racial bias can begin as early as 2 1/2 to 3 years of age. 

1. Reflect on your own experiences: how old were you when you first had a conversation about race and racism? 
2. How do you think early conversations shape children’s understanding of race?

Do you have children or young people in your life? 

3. If so, how often do you engage with them on topics of race and racism? 
4. How can you normalize these discussions and create a safe space for these conversations moving forward?

Think about experiential learning on race and racism. 

5. Have you visited historical sites in your community or engaged in activities that highlight issues of race? 
6. How could you incorporate these experiences into your interactions with children or young people?

Black parents often have conversations with their children about race at a young age to prepare them for a racialized society. 

7. These conversations are meant to instill positive racial identities. Reflect on why white parents may be less likely to have these types of discussions, and what this means for the way race is understood across generations.

Consider the concept of “The Talk” that Black parents give their children about navigating a racialized society. 

8. After watching the video “Dear Child – When Black Parents Have to Give ‘The Talk,’” reflect on your thoughts and feelings about this. 
9. How does this conversation differ from those typically had in white families, and what might that mean for societal outcomes?

Take a look at your personal environment. 

10. How diverse is your social circle, the literature in your home, and the media you consume? 
11. How do you think a child or young person might view this environment?
12. What steps could you take to ensure a more diverse and inclusive space for the children in your life?

 This module challenges us to think about how we can build racial awareness, positive identities, and agency in children. It emphasizes the power of conversations and experiences in shaping young minds, particularly when it comes to navigating race and racism. It also highlights the disparities in how different families approach these topics, particularly between Black and white parents. By reflecting on how diverse representation is in our environments, we can identify opportunities to create spaces that promote inclusivity and understanding for children. Moving forward, consider how you can contribute to these discussions and efforts in your own life, fostering a more inclusive and open-minded generation.